Endometriosis, Interstitial Cystitis and Listening to Your Body

Heather Crosby is the creator of Yum Universe, an incredible online resource full of recipes, meal plans and support for those looking to eat good, comforting food and increase their intake of plants. Heather's own struggles with health came to a climax when she was diagnosed with interstitial cystitis, which is a chronic condition with no current effective treatment or cure, and so she turned to diet to help her manage the painful symptoms. Heather's health is now in an amazing place and she has just released her latest book, Pantry to Plate, which is all about cooking without recipes!

We talk about the possibility of Heather having endometriosis, her challenges with her health and interstitial cystitis, how listening to her body completely transformed her attitude to her health and how she went from refusing to eat vegetables to drinking mushroom lattes!

I really, really, really loved talking to Heather. After we ended the call I was buzzing with positive energy and it felt amazing! Ever since speaking, both of us have been on a new exploration with our health. Heather is looking into investigating whether she has endometriosis and I have made some changes suggested for those with interstitial cystitis and guess what?! My bladder pain is non-existent unless I eat or drink something which are common triggers (coffee and tomatoes seem to be my thing). It's been such a relief for me to experience this break in pain, because I've been so concerned as to why that area has been so painful for over 10 years and they've always said my endometriosis has nothing to do with it.

This conversation just goes to show you how important it is to talk to each other about our health. We may not be doctors, but it was through talking to a friend that I was able to recognise the symptoms of endometriosis and finally be diagnosed and history may be repeating itself once more. Interstitial cystitis and endometriosis are heavily linked, so I do think it's worth speaking with your doctor if you're concerned about pain or pressure in your bladder and urinary frequency.